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Mission and Vision

Message from the
President

“Building Opportunity | Strengthening Community” is a strategic plan that boldly proclaims that Ocean County College changes lives and communities. Four small words capture the heart of this bedrock institution for Ocean County. This strategic plan prepares us individually and collectively for the challenging work ahead by grounding this work in our tradition as a catalyst for positive change. The yoking of opportunity and community reminds us that our individual endeavors and successes have a collective value, too.

This plan, built upon our new mission, vision, and values, is a testament to the future we can create together. It was crafted through the engagement with both our internal and external communities. The drafts went through many iterations based on feedback from faculty and staff, students, alumni, advisory boards, and community partners and stakeholders. The plan is focused on the concepts of empowerment, a focus on the future, connections, and sustainability. These four goals are interdependent and require all of us to support these goals through action and care. Our success requires us to embrace new ways of thinking and doing. The plan is ambitious but doable, with objectives and strategies that guide our actions and decisions. In these uncertain times, this blueprint for institutional, student, and community success reminds us of the essential work of the college and its people and how we can collectively impact lives and communities.

I extend my deepest gratitude to all those who volunteered their time, insight, and energy to the Strategic Planning Taskforce. Your dedication has shaped a bold, actionable plan that will guide Ocean County College into the future. Ocean County College remains steadfast in our commitment of being of and for the communities we serve.

Pamela J. Monaco, Ph.D. | President

Mission

Ocean County College empowers diverse learners to achieve their goals while enriching the communities we serve.

Vision

To inspire our students and community to learn, discover, and thrive.

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Our Values

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Opportunity-focused

We place students at the heart of everything we do, providing transformative academic and career pathways and practical skills to help learners achieve their educational, personal, and professional goals.

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Collaborative

We embrace a culture of teamwork, integrity, and mutual respect, encouraging open communication and partnerships within our college and with the broader community.

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Ethical

We hold ourselves accountable, maintaining integrity, transparency, and responsibility in all our actions.

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Accessible

We prioritize open education and actively promote inclusivity, equity, and belonging, continually learning and adapting to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed.

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Nurturing

We are sensitive to the experiences and needs of our students, staff, and community, fostering a welcoming environment where everyone feels comfortable and supported.

2025-2030
Goals

  • Objective 1.1: Expand support services for underrepresented learners.
  • Objective 1.2: Advance equity in student retention.
  • Objective 1.3: Augment outreach to underrepresented populations.
  • Objective 1.4: Promote instructional practices that support and advance student success.
  • Objective 1.5: Ensure a sense of belonging is central to the campus experience.
  • Objective 2.1: Build partnerships with employers to offer experiential learning opportunities.
  • Objective 2.2: Diversify options for stackable credentials and short-term certifications.
  • Objective 2.3: Develop programs that align with current labor market needs.
  • Objective 2.4: Provide career readiness supports and embed career competencies across the curriculum.
  • Objective 2.5: Broaden non-credit to credit pathways.
  • Objective 3.1: Strengthen internal communication and structures of engagement.
  • Objective 3.2: Increase recognition and celebrate employee excellence.
  • Objective 3.3: Assess and implement strategies to improve employee retention and role fulfillment.
  • Objective 3.4: Promote ongoing professional growth and development of employees.
  • Objective 4.1: Expand and sustain grant funding.
  • Objective 4.2: Maximize the use of physical plant resources.
  • Objective 4.3: Leverage existing technology and infrastructure to improve operational efficiency and enrich academic offerings.
  • Objective 4.4: Develop targeted marketing campaigns to grow enrollment.
  • Objective 4.5: Strengthen OCC’s impact and standing within the community.